Suggested foods to avoid during a C diff. infection

The nutritional intake during the treatment and post-c. diff. infection can be challenging. The clear liquid diet is recommended for three days, any prolonged use of this diet will result in poor nutrition. There are certain food and food groups that a patient may consider avoiding during this and many gastrointestinal infections/diagnosis . No two bodies are created nor respond alike making diets a very individualized program.

Whole milk and milk products can cause additional G.I. upset and it is a known fact that during a C. diff. infection Lactose Intolerance can occur. Utilizing a milk substitute(i.e., Soy milk, etc.) may be more tolerable at this time. Greasy foods and foods high in fat content are difficult to digest and may cause additional diarrhea episodes. Additional foods that may cause additional abdominal/intestinal bloating and discomfort such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, whole grain breads, onions, beans. The toxins in the gastrointestinal tract after eating raw vegetables produce bloating and by cooking the vegetables instead of eating them raw may reduce the bloating effects. Fat free foods (i.e., Olestra or Olean) have shown to cause diarrhea episodes and increased bloating. Spicy foods will elevate the symptoms of C. diff.. Avoiding large amounts of caffeine is suggested as caffeine will irritate the gastrointestinal system and prolong healing and the recovery process. Caffeine also has diuretic effects creating a fluid shift promoting diarrhea episodes by pulling fluid from the tissue into the intestinal track.

A referral from a Primary Physician, Gastroenterologist, Endocrinologist to a Registered Dietitian (RD) is a positive step in obtaining a healthy diet that works for your body while combating a Clostridium difficile infection, along with any confirmed diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, Celiac disease, or IBS.

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